Step inside the (now certified) Pilatus PC-24
We were delighted to hear the news that the Pilatus PC-24 was certified by both EASA and the FAA earlier this month – right on schedule (not that we’d expect anything less than punctuality from the Swiss manufacturer!).
The ‘Super Versatile Jet’ can now begin deliveries to customers. It’s a major milestone for Swiss business aviation – their first business jet – and follows the highly-popular Pilatus PC-12 (a single-engine turboprop, rather than a jet).
Earlier this year, Pilatus brought one of its final stage test PC-24s to industry convention EBACE. And luckily for us, we had VIP access at the static display to film a video tour:
What makes the Pilatus PC-24 so special?
After the PC-24 was unveiled at EBACE three years ago, its first production run of 84 aircraft sold out within hours. The order book will now reopen, following its successful certification.
The PC-24’s hangar mate, the Pilatus PC-12 propeller aircraft, has already proved a big success story for the Swiss manufacturer over the past few years. And for the PC-24, Pilatus has taken the same durability and versatility and wrapped it up in a bigger, twin-engined jet.
Key to the appeal of the rugged and reliable PC-12 has been its STOL (short take off and landing) ability. The PC-24 has the same attributes – meaning it can access unpaved and even grass runways – but with the extra speed and wider appeal of a jet aircraft.
Another feature Pilatus have retained from the PC-12 is the large cargo door, by the aircraft’s reinforced left wing. This is a first for a business jet, and a major marketing differentiator, which it will use to position itself against rival aircraft, most notably the highly-successful Embraer Phenom 300 (the best-selling business jet in the world over the past few years).
The PC-24’s large cabin can be configured as a 6-seat luxury corporate jet, with a very sizeable baggage area and fully-enclosed lavatory. It can also be configured as a 4-seater executive jet, with an expanded cargo area.
And of course, its flexible landing capabilities and cargo door will make it an excellent choice for air ambulance and governmental flights – which require a more open interior.
When will the Pilatus PC-24 be available for charter?
With certification now received, Pilatus will make its first deliveries within weeks. So we expect the PC-24 to become available for charter in the first half of 2018.
With new single-engine turboprop regulations giving greater commercial advantage to the PC-12, and the PC-24 now coming to market, 2018 is set to be an exciting year for Pilatus.
To charter a Pilatus aircraft or to compare options, our 24-hour expert Flight Team are available for advice and pricing. Contact us or call +44 (0)20 7100 6960.
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